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Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-line Entry & Guided Tour

4.2
(113 reviews)
Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-line Entry & Guided Tour Gallery Image 1
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Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-line Entry & Guided Tour Gallery Image 4

Descend into the magical depths of Istanbul’s underground wonder as you explore the Basilica Cistern with an expert guide. Hear the legends, admire the mysterious Medusa heads, and discover the secrets of this ancient water palace hidden beneath the city streets.

Basilica Cistern Tour Times

Mondays 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 15:30, 16:45

Tuesdays 09:00, 10:30, 12:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00

Wednesdays 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 16:45

Thursdays 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 12:30, 14:00, 15:15, 16:30

Fridays 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 11:30, 12:00, 12:30, 13:30, 14:30, 15:45, 16:30

Saturdays 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:30, 14:00, 15:00, 15:30, 16:30

Sundays 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:30, 14:15, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00, 16:30

Basilica Cistern Tour Meeting Point:

Meet with the guide in front of the Busforus Sultanahmet (Old City) Stop.

Our guide will hold the Istanbul E-pass flag at the meeting point and time.

Busforus Old City Stop is located across the Hagia Sophia, and you can easily see red double-decker buses.

Join our expert-guided tour and uncover the hidden stories behind this atmospheric underground marvel, famously featured in movies like Inferno and From Russia with Love.

With skip-the-line access, avoid the long queues and enjoy a seamless entry into one of the city's most captivating historical landmarks. Our knowledgeable guide will walk you through the captivating architecture, legendary Medusa heads, and the cistern’s mysterious ambiance that leaves every visitor in awe.

About this activity

  • Free cancellation

    Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

  • Reserve now & pay later

    Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.

  • Duration 20 minutes

    Check availability to see starting times

  • Skip the ticket line

  • Live tour guide

    English

  • Wheelchair accessible

Highlights

  • Enjoy skip-the-ticket-line entry to the Basilica Cistern
  • Explore Istanbul’s underground wonder with a guided tour of the Basilica Cistern
  • Feel free to stay inside Basilica Cistern for as long as you like
  • Take time to highlight the fascinating myths surrounding the cistern

Description

Descend into the magical depths of Istanbul’s underground wonder as you explore the Basilica Cistern with an expert guide. Hear the legends, admire the mysterious Medusa heads, and discover the secrets of this ancient water palace hidden beneath the city streets. Basilica Cistern Tour Times Mondays 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 15:30, 16:45 Tuesdays 09:00, 10:30, 12:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00 Wednesdays 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 16:45 Thursdays 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 12:30, 14:00, 15:15, 16:30 Fridays 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 11:30, 12:00, 12:30, 13:30, 14:30, 15:45, 16:30 Saturdays 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:30, 14:00, 15:00, 15:30, 16:30 Sundays 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:30, 14:15, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00, 16:30 Basilica Cistern Tour Meeting Point: Meet with the guide in front of the Busforus Sultanahmet (Old City) Stop. Our guide will hold the Istanbul E-pass flag at the meeting point and time. Busforus Old City Stop is located across the Hagia Sophia, and you can easily see red double-decker buses. Join our expert-guided tour and uncover the hidden stories behind this atmospheric underground marvel, famously featured in movies like Inferno and From Russia with Love. With skip-the-line access, avoid the long queues and enjoy a seamless entry into one of the city's most captivating historical landmarks. Our knowledgeable guide will walk you through the captivating architecture, legendary Medusa heads, and the cistern’s mysterious ambiance that leaves every visitor in awe.

Inclusions

  • Entry ticket to Basilica Cistern
  • Skip-the-ticket-line
  • Tour guide

Traveler Ratings

See how travelers have rated this attraction. Check out the average rating and read what others have shared about their experiences

4.2 / 5

4.1858406 out of 5 stars

Based on 113 reviews

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Traveler Reviews

Discover what other travelers have to say about this attraction. Read their reviews and get insights into their experiences

Aleksandr
We were in group of approximately 30 people. We had a separate entrance possibility without a queue
Nathan
We saved minimum 45 minutes with skip the ticket line. Guide gave 15 - 20 minutes information about place was enough and interesting then left us free inside to explore by ourselves.

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